JALANDHAR
In a significant step to support ex-servicemen and their families, Punjab Defence Welfare Minister Mohinder Bhagat on Tuesday inaugurated a field office of the Defence Welfare Department at the premises of the Sainik Welfare office in Jalandhar. The initiative aims to provide ex-servicemen and their dependents with seamless assistance in government-related matters, especially with Department of Defence Welfare.
Accompanied by MLA Raman Arora, Chairman Punjab Safai Karamchari Commission Chandan Grewal, Chairman District Planning Committee Amritpal Singh, Chairman Punjab Agri-Export Corporation Limited Mangal Singh Bassi, and District Sainik Welfare Officer Commander Baljinder Singh Virk, the Minister emphasized that the Punjab Government, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to ensuring the welfare of all citizens.
Acknowledging the sacrifices made by ex-servicemen in safeguarding the nation, Mr. Bhagat stressed the government’s responsibility to support them in their daily interactions with government offices. He urged veterans and their families to utilize the newly established field office for assistance with various government departments.
To further enhance accessibility, Mr. Bhagat announced that he would personally visit the office periodically to address the concerns of ex-servicemen. Senior officials from the department will also be present to ensure smooth processing of their requests, eliminating the need to travel to Chandigarh headquarters. He highlighted that the office is expected to benefit ex-servicemen from Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, SBS Nagar, Amritsar, and even the Malwa region.
Highlighting the Punjab Government’s pro-soldier initiatives, Mr. Bhagat noted that ex-gratia grants for martyrs have been increased to Rs. 1 crore, and the next of kin of martyr soldiers are assured government jobs. The Minister reiterated the state’s commitment to honouring and facilitating those who have served the nation.